【MAID WEEK / open mingle】

[berriah]

MAID WEEK

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❤

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Welcome to Starsand

The city's atmosphere has lightened up since the cherry blossoms were revived. Talk of Fallen Stars being "omens of misfortune" and "out to replace us normal folk," have died down to mere whispers. In their place is louder talk of an event affectionately called "Maid Week," which has captured the attention of gossip and activities alike.

When prompted, cityfolk will explain that the event is actually a citywide cleaning event. Everyone in the city gets together not just to clean the streets, but to repair things and decorate. It's common for walls to be set aside for drawing on with chalk or for entire art projects. People who specialize in repairs or building will loan their skills to the public in order to better the city. Friends often get together to repair and clean each other's homes as well.

These efforts are given mostly for free... "Mostly." You see in Starsand, there is no longer a use for money. Spirits can provide most anything that you need in exchange for prayers, so coin money is becoming irrelevant. But when you work hard and passionately in Starsand, your emotions create something called a "Starling." These magical items look like konpeito and they have the same magical value as an hour of intense prayer. Starlings can be given to spirits for quick miracles, so they've become a sort of "faith currency."

During Maid Week, a lot of Starling is produced. When your character lends their help, they will produce Starling equal to how passionate they were about the task. For example, hating your job will result in one or two tiny Starling pieces per hour. But if you are doing something that you brings you joy, you will create bigger and more pieces. Because of this, people are encouraged to make the act of cleaning and helping as fun as possible. Some turn it into a game or a chance to hang out with friends, while some get playfully competitive.

Oh, but the most important part?

Maid outfits. Normally, the amount of Starling produced when doing household chores is minimal. You get more Starling at licensed places of business, where a special shrine is built to amplify the power. In order to make "Seasonal Cleaning Week" produce more Starling, a special enchantment was made... This enchantment triples the amount of Starling a person produces, which makes Maid Week more profitable (and appealing.) And, you guessed it... The enchantment only works on maid outfits. Wow. Weird.

So grab your maid outfit and earn yourself some magic konpeito! This isn't a fabricated excuse for maids at all!

!

Out of Character Notes

The enchantment on the maid outfit will not wear off, so long as the owner of the outfit is not changed. (Ex.: Don't trade it or give it away.)

Your character can keep their outfit and continue profiting off household chores, even after the event.

Maid outfits are given out for free at various shops. No one will force your character to wear one, but people will explain why it is beneficial and gently encourage it.

Only spirits get a magic boost from eating Starling. For humans, it will provide a temporary energy boost.

(A) Dressing Up

Starting on Saturday the 7th, most clothing stores and boutiques will open special "Maid Day" sections. Here, customers can pick an enchanted maid costume to wear for the rest of the week. There are numerous styles, which vary depending on the type of store you are visiting. It's also possible to try them on. Everything will be fitted specifically to your character once they pick their outfit as part of the enchanting process.

If you're passionate about fashion, it's also possible to volunteer at these shops for the weekend. Volunteers can help modify details to make the outfit perfectly suited to each customer. They may even learn a thing or two about the enchanting process! And, of course, Starling will be created from their efforts.

!

Out of Character Notes

Maid outfits are physical pieces of clothing, but magically altered to fit each client.

Characters can only keep one enchanted maid outfit. The enchantment transfers from outfit to outfit. But they can collect multiple free dresses this week.

The enchantment cannot be transferred to non-maid themed clothing. It can be added to a headdress, sleeve cuffs, or apron if you don't want a whole maid outfit.

Butler-type outfits are included, but everyone still calls them "maid outfits."

(B) Volunteer Activities

There's a lot that needs doing during Maid Week! The activities will seemingly never end, so characters should have no trouble finding work to do. Streets need sweeping, buildings need repainting, structures need mending, gardens need tending... If your character sees something that needs to be fixed, then they can self-assign themselves the task of doing it. They're also encouraged to help others with tasks in-progress. Strangely, Starling amounts increase when more than one maid works together. So teamwork is literally valuable!

But there's more to Maid Week than cleaning. Shops will not only hire temporary workers, but shop owners are eager to share their craft with newbies. Bakeries are offering baking lessons, for example, or teaching people how to manage a store. Boutiques are teaching fashion and basic sewing, sports teams are teaching their games, clinics offer first aid, etc. Taking time to sit down and learn a skill can also produce konpeito, so why not try something new?

!

Out of Character Notes

Skills should be beginner-level. Characters can return to establishments for part-time jobs to develop new skills further.

Go wild with cleaning/fixing projects!

You can assume that your character earns a sizable amount of Starling. It can be handwaved for buying housing, restaurant meals, nice clothes, and other luxuries.

Starling does not expire, but it does lose its potency within a week of being produced.

(C) Maid Cafe Break

Another aspect of Maid Week is pop-up cafes. Buildings are rented for limited run Maid Cafes, with some additional theming. There are animal-themed cafes (cats, owls, foxes, etc.) or design themed (alice in wonderland, gothic, cottagecore, etc.) The point is: There are a lot of them. And they're hiring!

Maid Cafes offer a space for the not-so-cleaning-inclined to make some spare Starling. They earn more Starling if they're having fun, so it's suggested to work somewhere that you'll enjoy. Refreshments are free. After all, hard workers need to refuel and relax between helping the city!

Starling is produced for both the maid and the customer if they have a lively conversation, so be sure to chat up the staff!

!

Out of Character Notes

You may handwave various types of cafes.

Characters may be able to open their own pop-up cafe if they get support from a local. Locals are very happy to help bring new ideas to the city and will assist in keeping the cafe safe and up to code.

(D) The Reblooming

It's a well known fact that the cherry blossom trees "rebloom" every night at midnight. During this event, the blossoms that had fallen will float backwards and reattach to their respective sakura trees. Then the process of blossoms falling repeat until the next reblooming. During the hour after a rebloom, the petals glow like stars.

During Maid Week, this event receives a lot more attention. Tiny wooden shrines, looking a lot like bird houses, are set at the trunk of every tree in the city. At midnight, people gather to watch the reblooming and to give thanks to the hardworking sakura trees. They leave Starling in the shrines and potted flowers around the base, to "keep the trees company." It's common to throw midnight picnics at the trees, where people laugh and sing. They say that the tree's spirit is an honored guest. It's a joyous event, held under a canopy of glowing cherry blossom petals.

!

Out of Character Notes

Reblooming picnic baskets can be picked up at cafes.

Reblooming parties produce Starling.

(E) Maid Day / May 10th

On May 10th, the formula of Maid Day switches up a bit. Rather than the citizens working to repair the town, this is a day when the spirits spoil the maids. Apparently this is why everyone wears maid outfits when doing work: It's so that the spirits can tell who they need to thank.

When characters wake up on May 10th, they'll find their breakfast has been prepared by spirits. If they've been giving a lot of Starling to the nearby shrines, then they will find a fantastic and luxurious meal. If they haven't then, well... the spirits will do their best, but they may not have the power to create something amazing.

This pattern of spirits trying to thank maids will occur all day. Sometimes the result is amazing: Your clothes are laundered and folded, your home is clean, you have great luck with everything that you do... But sometimes, it's not so great. A spirit tried to brush your hair and turned it pink instead. All of your clothes, except your enchanted maid outfit, have been ruined. The food in your fridge all expires at once. The spirits aren't malicious, but the weaker ones have a success rate of 10%. May the spirit gacha be in your favor.

At the end of the day, when all of the damage is done, some of the cleaning efforts are also undone. You may find spirits sulking in dark corners of the city, ashamed of how poorly their efforts went. A sulking spirit does not produce a glow, but creates a speck of darkness. Those with strong empathy can hear them crying wordlessly. You have a lot of Starling from working hard, right? Maybe it wouldn't be a bad idea to feed these spirits..? Or maybe you hold a grudge over their cluminess. Up to you.

!

Out of Character Notes

If you want to give sad spirits konpeito, reply to the Sad Spirit top-level for an NPC response.

Spirits are not malicious with their clumsiness.

Clumsiness should not break the city, but it can be very irritating and borderline dangerous.

Stronger spirits will step in to prevent injury, death, and widescale disaster.

Extra Notes

Maid Week takes place from May 7th until May 13th. Characters will be able to earn a decent amount of Starling from this event, which can be exchanged for luxury items. You can handwave your character paying for permanent housing, nicer clothes, going out to fancy restaurants, etc. by using their Starling. We don't track exact amounts, so no need to do math to tally up what your character earns.

Feel free to invent extra prompts & be a bit silly with the concept. This event should lean light-hearted.

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Comments

[rejectedchain]

[Elliot hasn't noticed Leo yet, which is probably obvious by how relaxed he is. He's far too busy indulging the cats, and has toyed with the idea of asking if he could take one home. But they are comfortable here, and he may run into a stray, and they make this stupid job more tolerable anyway. The cat mewls and suddenly walks away when she hears Leo, stopping in front of him and looking at him with her large green eyes.]

Melody, what is it--

[Yes, he's already started naming all the cats, and yes, he ignores his customer in favor of following said cat who has stopped and is purring at Leo's feet. Kneeling down to pet her, Elliot looks up to say something, and that's when he realizes who is staring at him.

His mind blanks out.]

...Leo?

[Ah...wait a second. Why is he here?!]

You're eating out?!

[Alone? Without telling him? While he's working so hard--he's working anyway--to make them money?!

Elliot fumes and grips his notepad, nearly tearing it in half.]

[goldspecktacles]

[Oh dear. This is hilarious and horrible, all at once. There's not much time to admire the way that Elliot treats the cats, to whom he's clearly taken an easy liking to, or that butler attire suits him oddly well. They're going to end up adopting cats, aren't they? And as much as Leo would love to tease Elliot for having picked up a job, well... He'll still do that. But after setting the record straight and saving them some needless bickering.

They do enough needed bickering already.]

My my, what a surprise.

[Leo lifts his hand and traces the top page of his notebook, where his review notes are kept, and then flips the cover to show the title: "Cafe Reviews." Never mind that the interior page had a column labeled "Elliot," where Leo noted whether the cafe was worth a return visit. He's counting on his friend being too angry to notice such details.]

Yes, something like that. Though I'm only here to rate your finest coffee. It's my job, you see.

[Having now admitted that he is also working, Leo leans forward with his elbow (rudely) on the table and chin resting on his hand. His smile is far too sweet and pleasant to mean anything but cavities and suffering.]

However... Seeing as my waiter is entertaining, maybe I'll switch things up this time~ What items on the menu are the staff forced to prepare themselves~?

[rejectedchain]

[Elliot wonders what the hell he's just gotten himself into. He doesn't trust that reply at all, and he's about to start shouting in the middle of the cafe because that doesn't answer his question! But he stops and gawks at the title on his notebook.]

...Ah? That's a real job?

[He's putting in an effort to do some work he'd normally never do when people get paid to review food?! Elliot flushes, angry and embarrassed to have been one-upped by Leo. His fingers are digging into the notepad with such force that he's smudged some of the orders. That asshole...! He can't even get mad at Leo for being here if he's here for them, but that doesn't stop him. Luckily for Leo, his temper blinds him from any other details in his notebook.]

If this is a joke, Leo--

[He warns him, smacking his elbow while berating him about his manners and forgetting that Leo is technically...he's...he's his customer now.

He really despises that smile. It always means bad news for him. He doesn't actually despise it, but if it doesn't make him want to punch something.]

Forced?

[Repeated flatly. There are a few items on the menu like that, but with Leo staring at him like that--with the sunlight from the window creating a sort of halo around him, gold flecks in his stupid eyes even more radiant than normal--he cannot think straight. Elliot racks his brain to remember which items are included but easier to do. Stupid Leo.]

We are expected to know how to prepare the drinks, as well as some of the breakfast items such as waffles. But as you can see, we're not that busy at the moment, so I can leave those duties to the baristas. They are far more qualified.

[It's a lame excuse, and it probably won't work, but he won't give up without a fight!]

[goldspecktacles]

[It doesn't necessarily bring Leo joy to see Elliot upset, but he'd be lying if he said it wasn't endearing. The way that his friend wears his emotions on his sleeve (and face) is very charming to the boy who bottles up his own. When Leo says Elliot is like the sun, he means the parts that give you sunburns as much as the pleasant warmth.

So excuse him as he teases a bit more. He can't help himself. If Elliot seems like he'll really blow up and lose his job, then Leo will pull back and apologize. But until then, the most valuable item on this cafe's menu is its short-tempered waiter.]

Eh~ You won't make me a coffee yourself? What's the point of a handsome server if the patron doesn't have him all to themselves?

[Not Leo opening his own notebook and pretending that he's making a review note. He's twirling the pen between his fingers, because he won't actually badmouth Elliot even for money.]

Well then, I'll have whatever you recommend. I'm only interested in a drink, size small. [Leo saves his appetite for the meals that they share together.]

[rejectedchain]

Quit whining, you spoiled serv--

...What.

[Elliot's ears are burning. No, actually his whole face and neck are from the collar up. He tugs at the collar that suddenly feels constricting, mouth agape as he tries to formulate a sentence. Did Leo really just call him handsome?

Tucking a longer piece of hair behind his ear and then cursing at himself for doing something so girlish and pathetic, his expression is frozen and wholly serious as he searches Leo's own. He's teasing him, of course he is. But then if that's all it is, Elliot doesn't find it very funny.

He can't stand up faster when Leo provides him with the perfect excuse, shouting to try and drown out his own pounding heart.]

I'll be right back! Don't do anything dumb!

[He can't race out of the dining area fast enough. Elliot is gone for several minutes, both to calm himself down and because he really has no idea what he's doing. The sound of breaking cups and cursing can be heard, but eventually he returns with a plate and delicate cup served with fresh...

Plain, black coffee, with sugar and cream on the side, like a true professional.]

It's our house blend, so don't complain.

[He grumbles.]

[goldspecktacles]

[Leo is only partially oblivious. He's well aware of how he does find Elliot handsome, so make no mistake in assuming that comment was loaded. But he's used to Elliot getting upset over such things in general. Leo sees his reaction as nothing more special than a well aimed tease.

The speed at which Elliot leaves, with Leo waving after him, is a mercy to them both. So is the time that Elliot spends crashing and cursing through the kitchen. Leo pretends to look at his notepad, feigning productivity. Elliot really got a job. He's really working. A noble brat like Elliot! And Leo takes this time to indulge in a selfish daydream where Elliot is working hard for them. It makes his heart ache pleasantly to imagine that they've both been working hard for each other. Returning home is going to be extra special tonight.

But that's not fair to Elliot, he knows. Leo's fantasy of living together is painted differently than it should be and he's needing to correct the rose tint. So upon his friend's return, Leo banishes those warm thoughts. The reality is nice too. He looks down at the coffee and already knows it'll be the best cup he's had all day.]

Why would I complain? You made it just for me! [He's teasing. Then, in hopes of preventing Elliot from yelling and losing his job, Leo quickly moves on with sincerity.] Thank you, Elliot. And I'm sorry you need to look after me.

[Does he mean because he's a customer? Because he's a bad servant? Or will Elliot catch Leo's underlying apology, where he feels guilty for not pulling his weight? He can't work effectively just yet. Between his atrocious servant skills and the recent loss of his hand, Leo hasn't been much help.]

[rejectedchain]

[Thankfully, the time it takes him to prepare the simple cup of coffee is enough for Elliot to gather enough composure so that Leo can't as easily guess what is on his mind. Let him think he's simply flustered, Elliot doesn't want anything holding him back from what he needs to eventually do. He couldn't burden him with that.

But Leo is teasing him again and Elliot feels himself bristling, scowling at Leo and about to shout at him-- until he says that.]

I'm taking my break.

[He blurts out, slipping the notepad in his pocket and sitting opposite of Leo. He looks down at the table, his eyes softening before he levels his best friend with a stern glare.]

Don't be sorry on my behalf. [He starts to reach over to take his one hand but stops himself, by digging his fingers delicately into his uniform sleeve.] Instead of apologizing, use that energy to learning and getting stronger. But you're my equal, Leo, and that means I can take care of you too sometimes.

...Just don't expect it all the time. [He smiles, teasing him back.]

[goldspecktacles]

[While able to read people like books, Leo needs to be looking. He watches for a reaction and is surprised when Elliot reacts with a break. If for no reason than being pleased at having his wordless wish granted. That stern look is what he prefers; No pity, but a push forward. Seeing in Leo more than a one-handed servant, who cannot even make a cup of coffee.]

What a kind master I have. [There's no implied teasing in this sincere whisper. It's a 'thank you,' without having to repeat himself. Leo watches Elliot's hand and considers being the one who reaches over, but ultimately decides against it. Instead he takes the coffee cup closer and gently taps the plate. All while watching to see if Elliot shows any concern for the coffee, and potentially for its quality. If Elliot is taking the job seriously, then Leo will take the review more seriously. If not, then he won't draw attention to the coffee. Elliot is on break and Leo doesn't always need to tease him; These quiet moments are precious too.

He gently nudges the conversation away from the apology, before the sentimental whisper can overstay its welcome.]

... I've begun work on a book, as you suggested.

[rejectedchain]

Hm.

[Elliot makes no reproach, hoping Leo won't notice how his eyes soften and there's a dusting of pink on his cheeks. Elliot can't avert his eyes for long, attempting to keep his face carefully neutral and failing. He ends up having to bite the inside of his cheek, scowling in concentration as he gauges Leo's reaction. Is the coffee good? Is it even adequate? Elliot didn't really take the job seriously, but he immediately regretted that when Leo ordered. He should have paid more attention to how the baristas made the coffee.

But this is nice. Elliot stops gripping his sleeve, impressed and surprised.]

...Good. This place needs better literature. What's it about? Some weird subject?

[goldspecktacles]

[Leo notices the scowl and can't hide his own smile. He knows that Elliot would have to put some effort into making the coffee. Not only is this skill new to them, but the modern technology is going to take some adapting to. The fact that Elliot actually brewed him a coffee already had Leo quite flattered.

He carefully lifts the cup to his lips, smiling over the rim when Elliot questions his novel. Leo takes the moment where he sips the coffee to wonder if he should tell Elliot anything. This novel won't just be earning Leo money (he hopes,) but he plans to bake his feelings for Elliot into the story. If Elliot can't notice them in story form, then Leo reasons Elliot doesn't want to notice.]

Hm. You'll have to wait and see. I was going to ask you to beta read it.

[Setting the cup down again, Leo finally announces;] The coffee is good.

[rejectedchain]

[It had been a frustrating process, especially when Elliot was already distracted by Leo’s teasing praise, but he wanted to get the coffee right. Leo deserved a good cup of coffee. He wonders if he should have tried a more complicated recipe, such as one of those macchiato’s or whatever. He didn’t necessarily mind the new technology, but it was a lot to learn at once.]

I would be insulted if you didn’t.

[And then he’d get violent. Still, hearing that makes his pulse race a bit as if he had just drank an espresso.

Hmm Leo seemed like the espresso type. Maybe he could recommend one—]

Good?

[Elliot repeats him, frowning and searching Leo’s expression. It’s not because he takes any chance he can to look at his lovely eyes.]

[goldspecktacles]

[Leo tends to be an observant person, especially when it comes to Elliot. His anger may be obvious with how loudly and violently Elliot displays it, but the other emotions tend to get lost in that show. His master's happiness is a top concern, even if Leo disguises his own feelings under neutral expressions and threatening smiles. If he senses Elliot's emotions going in a downward direction, then Leo will step in to gently nudge his mood upward again. No matter how much they bicker and tease, Leo never stops thinking about Elliot.

So all of that staring has not gone unnoticed. Nor has the colour to Elliot's cheeks. Leo first acknowledges this by making eye contact with Elliot and chasing that contact awkwardly if Elliot gets shy about it. It's only after this silent calling out of his friend's behavior that Leo speaks up again.]

Yes, quite good. But I'm afraid I have to score it at a B. The other cafe's waitress made a show out of the presentation.

[Despite lowering Elliot's score for not being staffed at a crazy maid cafe, Leo does not sound like he was impressed with said show. He reaches for the cup again, but he has to keep his eyes closed. If he doesn't, then he'll stare just as much as Elliot. Leo much prefers having a handsome and quiet waiter over dancing girls.]

You're on your break, you know. Shouldn't you get something to eat? [And before Elliot can mistake this as Leo trying to chase him away--] What time do you get off? I'll meet you.

[rejectedchain]

I'm not giving you a show!

[Elliot huffs, his face growing hotter at the wording.] Besides, even if I wanted to-- [Which he doesn't.] you didn't strike me as someone who would appreciate that sort of fluff.

[A B is still generous, he thinks, but Elliot doesn't understand why he suddenly feels wound up with jealousy and a bit of resentment toward some waitress he hasn't even met.

Those thoughts are useless, so he tries extinguishing them before they can grow stronger.]

I guess so. [But what about Leo? All he has is his lonely, mediocre cup of coffee.] My shift ends in two hours. ...Share with me?

[goldspecktacles]

[Leo chuckles at that, happy to have his preferences recognized by Elliot.]

You're right. I hated it. Girls like that are exhausting.

[His remark may be rude, but Leo isn't going to lie and pretend otherwise. Not in front of his equal. At least he didn't share those thoughts to the waitress, but instead rewarded her for doing her job. Even if he hates her job.]

Share the coffee? [Leo does nudge the plate forward,] This won't keep you going for two hours, will it? Master?

[It's never good when Leo voluntarily uses that term. He's mindful enough of the current culture to keep his voice low and quiet. Before Elliot can escape, Leo reaches out his hand to brush the longer strands of Elliot's hair by his cheek. Still smiling, but this time to mask concern. Sorry, Elliot, but Leo is frighteningly observant.]

You looked flushed earlier. You had better be taking care of yourself properly... Perhaps you should start with a proper meal, hm? I'll order it.

[rejectedchain]

Hm... [He hums thoughtfully in agreement. He doesn't care if it's rude, it's true and he agrees. At least Leo was a lot more tactful about it to the maid than he would have been. Elliot didn't hold back for anyone, including enthusiastic maids.

But he doesn’t dwell on those thoughts very long, because with what he assumed Leo is unintentionally implying about the shared cup of coffee and the softness of his voice when he uses that term has Elliot perched on the edge of his seat, ready to shout another excuse so that he may escape—

Damn it. Why did he think it had been a good idea to ask Leo of all people to stay by his side? Nothing gets past him and it’s simultaneously irritating and a bit endearing. Elliot’s throat feels dry. He can’t tear his eyes away from Leo’s enchanting gaze, the way that smile doesn’t quite match his eyes. This is dangerous. It’s dangerous for Leo, specifically. He deserves better than a fleeting epilogue.]

I—

[He needs to say something. It’s his responsibility, as Leo’s master and friend.]

Don't be ridiculous. [He scoffs, trying to sound affronted and failing. He puts his hand over Leo’s and lets it linger rather than push him away.]

The whole point is to make money, not spend it. I’m fine, Leo.

[goldspecktacles]

[Leo had fully expected for Elliot to bat his hand away and prepared for a small flare of anger to match. His touch was light and prepped for denial. So to have Elliot cover his hand is unexpected. Leo is ashamed to feel his breath hitch and heart betray him with hopes.
His smile softens. Maybe Elliot really is getting sick? In which case, it's disgusting of Leo to take this opportunity to show some disguised affection. He lightly strokes Elliot's cheek with his thumb, enjoying the warmth of his touch. Warm and alive, something Leo won't take for granted ever again.]

Master. [This time, Leo uses the term with combined scolding and affection. He carefully withdraws his hand, consciously prioritizing Elliot's health over his selfish indulgence, and slides a copy of the menu out from under his notebook. Said menu is opened and flipped to face Elliot, set on the table between them like a barrier. Leo leans over in his seat to peek around it. ]

We're working hard to be happy together, right? I won't be happy if you're unwell. [Adding some mischief to his tone, Leo hopes to distract from the previous moment:] It won't do if your stomach growls in public. People will know that I'm not feeding you.

[rejectedchain]

[Elliot certainly feels sick. Or...something is off with his body, anyway, because his heart beats as if he just sprinted and his face feels more and more warm. It's not an unpleasant feeling, but it's something Elliot shouldn't be entertaining, for Leo's sake. Everything he's doing is out of mere self-satisfaction. But as much as he selfishly allows himself to lean into that touch a little, there is an anger that weighs on his heart, different from his usual temper. This isn't just selfishness...this is cruel to Leo, to himself.

But before he can hiss at Leo to stop with the term because it's irritating or yell at him about the pointlessness of it--to cover up the empty pain carved out in his chest--Leo's hand is gone, his own held up as if to smack his away. Elliot blinks, but he manages to scowl at Leo as if it's his fault that he's distracted like this. It's definitely Leo's fault. Leo, with his stupid soothing voice that could be equally irritating, and haircut that frames his eyes perfectly, and those gestures Elliot doesn't deserve.]

Shut up!

[He retorts stubbornly. It's annoying Leo would use his health against him and as if on cue, his stomach betrays him too, growling pathetically. Elliot blushes more and hides his face with his hand, Melody hopping on the seat and curling up on his lapt to keep him in place. He swats at the menu to make a point.]

Stop being stupid...

[goldspecktacles]

[Leo withholds the urge to chuckle. His friend is being stubborn and embarrassed, so Leo won't take any action that might turn this side of Elliot into a table flipping rage. Besides; Leo rather likes the sight of Elliot like this. It's something almost exclusively shared between them. He selfishly watches on as Elliot is Chosen by Melody, burning this moment into his memory.

Though as much as he is enjoying Elliot's company, Leo cannot ignore that stomach grumble. He does not acknowledge it beyond taking the menu back and waving down a member of the wait staff. He hopes that this will force Elliot to make an order and feed himself.]

I'll try the waffles then. What will you be having, Elliot?

[rejectedchain]

[Leo and Melody are his enemies now, using his own weakness against him. Elliot finally manages to muster up a scowl aimed at Leo, though it probably comes across as more petulant than anything. It's true, he would rather be sitting here with Leo, but what good would that do his friend?]

...The waffles are shaped like cats.

[He comments, his tone softening a little. And yes, he's writing down Leo's order in his notepad, scribbling his too.]

I'm getting the pancakes.

[He moves to get up, which unfortunately would mean moving his cat Melody.]

[goldspecktacles]

I can't wait!

[Leo looks to Melody, noting that she seems perfectly comfortable on Elliot's lap. It is likely a fact that they'll be adopting her, isn't it..? He should ask the staff about that. While he's not as fond of cats as Elliot, Leo isn't opposed. Even if her fur is going to be a hassle to keep off of their clothes.

But more importantly, Elliot and Melody look comfortable. Leo enjoys this side of Elliot and he'd admittedly be upset to lose it. So he stands first and holds out his hand for the notepad.]

I think that your friend will be angry if you move, Elliot. Who do I bring that to? I'm sure they'll understand. [cat scratches are a pain to clean anyway. And Leo is Elliot's servant... when it suits him.]

[rejectedchain]

Shut it!

[Elliot is trying very hard to be mad, but he can't get too mad when Melody is nuzzling his hand. He sighs and obliges, petting her gently under her chin and frowns at Leo as if he's considering his options...even though his mind is already made up.

He tears the paper out of the notepad, holding it out for Leo.]

Fine. Only because you've been writing critiques all day. Just take it to the barista near the register.

[He nods at the barista behind the counter, who's trying not to look interested in whatever the two are talking about.]

You're such a pain.

[goldspecktacles]

[Leo takes the paper, smile becoming more bright as their conflict ends. They’ve struck a compromise, as they so often do, and he’s content to leave things there.]

Yes, yes. Do you need a bandaid for it?

[It’s a joke, aimed at neither of them in particular. Leo spots the nosy barista and walks over to give them the notepad, though his smile now carries a subtle threat. If there is any intent to gossip or make Elliot’s life harder, then Leo’s sharp tongue will be used for something other than reviews.

Then he silently returns to his seat.]

This world certainly is different, isn’t it? [He changes the topic,] I’ve gathered that it must be the future, but I’ve also found no reason to believe it’s connected to our story.

Notice anything while working here?

[rejectedchain]

[It's a horrible joke, and it has Elliot groaning loudly into his hands. Fortunately(?) he's too embarrassed to pay attention to Leo's interaction with the barista. The staff loved him here, said that he could be very popular with the customers if he would just be a bit less standoffish.

When he hears Leo return, he looks up, his face flushed and heart pounding. Oh. Right. Leo's asking him a question.]

The technology is pretty cool. [He can admit that much.] But you're right. This place is completely different.

[Which isn't necessarily a bad thing.]

[goldspecktacles]

[And that news certainly wouldn’t have Leo feeling a mix of pride and jealousy. He knows very well that Elliot is a likable person at his core. Otherwise he’d had left already! But it will be bittersweet to see Elliot making new friends here. It would be nice to see him treated as an equal instead of a member of the Nightray family.

Another difference in this world that Leo is glad for.

His own posture straightens and he lifts his hand excitably at the mention of technology.]

It really is quite amazing how science can progress. The binding on the books here is so smooth and the typesetting is incredibly neat and precise! I’m told they can mass print hundreds of books in mere minutes and the full colour pages are so vibrant!

[Missing the technology mark a bit.]

[rejectedchain]

[Elliot is just grateful they don't make this job harder. They also treat him like an equal, even if they are annoying about it. It's refreshing and it still catches him off guard each day.

But he's not focused on that as he listens to Leo ramble about books of all things. Still petting Melody absentmindedly, he looks a little stunned at first, his expression relaxing into a fond smile.]

Of course you would say that...

[Shaking his head.]

Have you found any good books here yet?